Introduction

Visitors who have been here, done that, will tell you that the best way to enjoy your Utah outdoor adventure vacation is with one of the many reliable tour operators/outfitters offering comprehensive guide services throughout the state.

The professionals listed on this website have the best gear, extensive knowledge of trails, rivers, canyons and streams and years of experience and training in the backcountry that will assure that your Utah visit is a quality experience. Many provide both day and multi-day trips in the state’s premier destinations. Several combine two or more activities - cycling, hiking, river running, nature and ecology studies, canyoneering, exploring, photography, wilderness education and many other adventures.

Many of their trips are fully vehicle supported, complete with fantastic, healthy meals. And virtually all tour operators/outfitters offer guide service geared to all abilities, from weekend warriors to seasoned backcountry veterans. Of course, families, kids and seniors are welcomed. Specialty trips for physically and mentally challenged are also available, as are corporate team-building and incentive programs. Naturally, safety is priority A-1.

Here are a few helpful tips if you are interested in more information on booking with a tour operator:

1. Click on the outfitter’s name to view their Info-now! page.

2. Most have websites for your convenience.

3. After you study their literature, call them. Discuss your particular needs, any diet preferences and travel plans. If you wish to use their gear or bikes, make sure they know sizes, special equipment, etc. Be sure to accurately describe the experience and ability level of all members of your party, being careful not to overestimate or underestimate.

4. Bear in mind that many of Utah’s outdoor destinations are at altitude, and your group may need a short time to adjust. See the article “Altitude, Climate and Terrain” on this website for more info.

5. On most guided trips, you can do as much or as little of the work (paddling, cooking, setting up camp, etc.) as you want. But a good rule of thumb is to ask your guide.

6. The Utah Guides and Outfitters (UGO) is a statewide organization. Membership consists of many of the leading companies. See their Comparison Chart on this website.

Some last thoughts. Tour operators, their employees and guides love what they are doing and have fun doing it. Since their office is the great Utah outdoors, who wouldn’t? Storytelling, cowboy poetry, acoustic music and gourmet cooking are the arts and talents of many guides. They are friendly, outgoing, highly trained and extremely professional in their jobs. To a person, their goal is to make your Utah outdoor adventure vacation the most memorable of a lifetime. And when you get back home, drop them a line or e-mail to tell them what a great time you had. You'll both feel good about that.